Translation and Meaning of: 電報 - denpou

The Japanese word 電報 (でんぽう, denpou) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries an interesting history and a specific use in Japan's daily life. In this article, we will explore its meaning, origin, and how it is perceived in the Japanese language, as well as tips for memorizing it effectively. If you are studying Japanese or just curious about unique terms, understanding 電報 may be more useful than you imagine.

In Suki Nihongo, we always strive to provide clear and precise explanations about Japanese words, and 電報 is an example that deserves attention. In addition to discovering its literal meaning, we will see how it is used in real contexts and why it remains relevant, even in an era dominated by instant messages. Shall we begin?

The meaning and origin of 電報.

The word 電報 is composed of two kanjis: 電 (den), which means "electricity," and 報 (hou), which can be translated as "news" or "information." Together, they form the term that designates "telegram" in Japanese. Although it may seem like an old concept, the telegram was a revolutionary means of communication in the past, allowing messages to be transmitted quickly through electric signals.

The origin of 電報 dates back to the 19th century, when the telegraph was introduced in Japan during the Meiji period. At that time, the country was undergoing rapid modernization, and Western technologies, such as the telegraph, were quickly adopted. The word itself reflects this innovation, combining the ideograms that represent electricity and the transmission of information.

Modern use and cultural context

Although telegrams have lost ground to emails and text messages, 電報 is still used on special occasions in Japan. For example, it is common to send congratulatory telegrams for weddings or graduations, or even in formal business situations. Companies like Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT) still offer this service, keeping alive a tradition that dates back over a century.

Interestingly, the use of 電報 also appears in Japanese animes and dramas, often as a narrative device to convey urgent or exciting news. This representation in media helps keep the word in popular imagination, even though its everyday usage has decreased. For Japanese learners, observing these contexts can be a great way to reinforce vocabulary.

Tips to memorize 電報

An effective way to remember 電報 is to break down its components. The kanji 電 (den) appears in other words related to electricity, such as 電話 (denwa, telephone) and 電気 (denki, electric light). Meanwhile, 報 (hou) is found in terms like 報告 (houkoku, report) and 新聞 (shinbun, newspaper). Associating these radicals with familiar concepts can speed up learning.

Another tip is to practice with real examples. Phrases like "電報を送る" (send a telegram) or "電報が届いた" (the telegram arrived) help to internalize the use of the word in concrete situations. If you enjoy animes or dramas, paying attention when 電報 appears in the dialogue can also be a fun way to reinforce your memory.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 電信 (Denshin) - Electrical communication refers to the system of sending messages through wires.
• 電信報 (Denshinpou) - Electric communication report may refer to messages or news transmitted by telegraph.
• テレグラフ (Teregurafu) - Telegraph, a device used for long-distance communication via electric signals.

電報

Romaji: denpou
Kana: でんぽう
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: telegram

Meaning in English: telegram

Definition: A method of remote communication to send and receive short messages using letters and numbers.

Example Sentences - (電報) denpou

See below some example sentences:

電報を送ります。

Denpou wo okurimasu

I will send a telegram.

I will send a telegram.

• 彼 (kare) - he (personal pronoun)
• は (wa) - Topic particle
• 窓 (mado) - window
• に (ni) - Destination particle
• 手 (te) - HAND
• を (wo) - Direct object particle
• 差し伸べた (sashino beta) - Extended (verb)